2003 Honda Z vs. 2008 Honda Civic
To start off, 2008 Honda Civic is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Honda Z would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Civic (140 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2003 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 2003 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Civic weights approximately 220 kg more than 2003 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Honda Z is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Honda Civic. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Honda Z will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Honda Civic (174 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Honda Z. (61 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Honda Z. 2008 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 2003 Honda Z has manual transmission. 2003 Honda Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Honda Z | 2008 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | Z | Civic |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 654 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 50 L |
